10 Day Heritage Tour of South India

10 Day Heritage Tour of South India

Duration: 10 Days

Places: Chennai-Pondicherry-Thanjavur-Karaikudi-Madurai

Request a quote or customize this itinerary further:

Book Now!

Tour Highlights

  • Get mesmerized by the scenic beauty of temples steeped in south-Indian culture, British-era museums and monuments and Marina Beach the second longest urban beach in the world.
  • Get astonished by the Shore Temple built during 700-728AD and has stood the test of time.
  • Guided tour of Puducherry – The French Riviera of the East.
  • Get spellbound by the 1,000-year-old Brihadishwara Temple of Thanjavur.
  • Seek blessings from goddess Meenakshi Amman in an evening aarti session at Madurai.
  • Places:
  • AChennai
  • BPondicherry
  • CThanjavur
  • DKaraikudi
  • EMadurai
  • FChennai

Itinerary

  • Day 1 CHENNAI
  • Day 2 CHENNAI
  • Day 3 PUDUCHERRY
  • Day 4 PUDUCHERRY
  • Day 5 THANJAVUR
  • Day 6 THANJAVUR
  • Day 7 KARAIKUDI
  • Day 8 MADURAI
  • Day 9 MADURAI
  • Day 10 MADURAI

On arrival at Chennai International Airport receive a warm welcome from our representative who will help you with transfer to the hotel. Complete the check-in formalities and spend rest of the day leisurely.(Standard check in time is 2:00PM. Early check in is subject to availability).A magnificent past and an early metropolitan dream. Formerly known as Madras, Chennai is the capital city of the state of Tamil Nadu, in the southern part of India. Located on the Coromandel Coast of Bay of Bengal, Chennai is as dynamic as it is immersed in tradition. This 'capital of the south', is one among the four metropolitan siblings of India, having a rich cultural history which it perfectly balances with its metropolis lifestyle.

Overnight at Chennai

After early breakfast, go for sightseeing tour of the city with your guide.

Spend some morning time at Marina Beach: Marina beach in Chennai along the Bay of Bengal is India’s longest and world’s second longest beach. It is predominantly sandy for nearly 12 kilometers.

Visit Fort St. George Museum & Church: Fort St. George is located on the banks of Bay of Bengal. It was built by the British East India Company in 1640 AD. The building which houses the museum used to be the location for the Madras Bank since 1795. However, after independence, it is serving as a large collection house of more than 3600 artifacts dating back to the entire period of the British rule - weapons, letters, coins, silverware, ceremonial dresses, medals, some personal items of the residents of the fort and many more.

Visit Fort St. George Church – The church within the fort premises is called St. Mary's Church which is the oldest Anglican church in India. It was built a couple of decades after the fort itself, around 1678 and 1680 as per the orders of the then Agent of Madras, Streynsham Master.

National Art Gallery: The gallery is claimed to be one of the most famous ones in the country. It is the house of paintings that are dated back in the 18th & 17th century.

See the Valluvar Kottam – Valluvar Kottam is a temple chariot like-monument in Chennai, built to honor the renowned classical Tamil poet and saint, Thiruvalluvar. This intricately designed monument was built by Kalaignar M.Karunanidhi during the 1970s to honor the contributions of Thiruvalluvar.

Visit Vivekananda House – a shrine and pilgrimage center for the admirers and followers of Swami Vivekananda. It is in this house that Swami Vivekananda stayed for six weeks in 1900.

Visit Santhome Cathedral: Built on top of its eponymous apostle’s final resting place, Santhome Basilica (or St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica) is a stunning piece of architecture steeped in religious history.

Visit Kapaleeswara Temple – a holy shrine of Shiva.

A visit to this temple will be an experience enriched with a glimpse into Tamil religious culture and the lovely architectural combination of the two styles - Dravidian and Vijaynagari, complete with towering Gopurams.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight at Chennai

After a hearty breakfast, check out from hotel and travel to Puducherry.

En-route stop to visit Mahabalipuram’s Shore Temple. Built during the 7th century, Shore Temple is one of the oldest South Indian temples constructed in the Dravidian style and depicts the royal taste of the Pallava dynasty. The work of the temple has been listed amongst the World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.

Five Rathas (Chariots): The Five Rathas, also known as Panch Rathas, is an exemplary set of rock temples. They are excellent examples of the evolution of Dravidian style architecture. The Rathas are associated with the great epic Mahabharata.

Arjuna’s Penance: The Arjuna's Penance is an enormous rock-cut relief, one of the largest in the whole world. It is also known by the name 'Descent of the Ganges' because the structure depicts either or both of these two significant and symbolic events of Hindu mythology.

After the sightseeing of Shore temple, continue to travel to Puducherry. Pondicherry, officially known as Puducherry, and commonly referred to as just Pondy, is one of the seven Union Territories of India. This former French colony is a perfect amalgamation of the traditional Indian sensibilities and French architecture, making it a dreamy escape that offers the best of both worlds. On arrival complete the check-in formalities and spend rest of the day leisurely.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight at Puducherry

After breakfast, go for sightseeing tour of the city with your guide.

Visit Arikamedu: an ancient Roman trade center . Arikamedu is the ruins that carried the remnants of the Roman trade in India. Located at the mouth of the river Ariyankuppam and its name has been taken from the Tamil word- 'Arikanmedu' which means 'eroding mount'. This port town was occupied by the people of Rome, Cholas, and French. It has been prevalent as a famous port town ever since the old Roman times.

Visit Auroville – Conceived as the 'Universal Town': Auroville is one of those towns which appear to come to life right out of fiction. In the union territory of Pondicherry, this township runs on the principles of peace, harmony, sustainable living and 'divine consciousness' which were the philosophy of the Mother of Sri Aurobindo Society, Mira Alfassa.

Visit Aurobindo Ashram: This ashram was set up with the aim of helping people attain moksha and inner peace. Thousands of tourists from all over the country visit the ashram to experience and achieve spiritual knowledge. Located in the White Town of Pondicherry, Aurobindo Ashram has been named after its creator- Sri Aurobindo Ghosh.

Visit Bharathi Park: Bharathi Park is a well-planned and well-maintained park flanked by some of the most important government buildings on all the sides. The well-maintained lush green lawns house the very famous Aayi Mandapam- the monument made in honor of the lady courtesan Aayi at the time of the French ruler- Napoleon III.

Visit Botanical Garden: A popular tourist attraction of Pondicherry, Botanical Garden was established by C.S. Perrott in the year 1862. The garden is home to several exotic varieties of rare plants as well as an aquarium.

Spend some relaxing evening at Promenade Beach: Pondicherry beach is a different kind of beach with less sand and more rocks. It offers a very peaceful place for its tourists and visitors to sit and enjoy the waves.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight at Puducherry

After a hearty breakfast, check out from hotel and travel to Thanjavur by Air Conditioned vehicle. Also known as Tanjore or the city of temples, Thanjavur has a lot of cultural value and is known for its famous Tanjore paintings, antiques and handicrafts, textiles and saris , its Carnatic music and musical instruments and of course the temples. Thanjavur enjoys a rich historical heritage and holds a very important position in the moulding of ancient as well modern south Indian civilization. On arrival complete the check-in formalities and spend rest of the day leisurely.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight at Thanjavur

After breakfast, go for sightseeing tour of the city with your guide.

Visit Brahadeshwara Temple: The biggest attraction of Thanjavur - The Brahadeshwara Temple, also known as the Big Temple. Built during the reign of the Great Chola emperor, Raja Chola, this temple is an architectural marvel. The shrine itself is a 216 feet structure. The sanctum is dotted with paintings from the Chola and Nayak periods. The statue of Nandi the Bull welcomes at the entrance.

Visit Vijayanagar Fort: Vijayanagar Fort is one among the enchanting and supreme forts of South India. In the previous times, it had served the 'most powerful' kingdom of Vijayanagar and stands close to the mesmerizing Brihadeeswara Temple. This fort was erected after the victory of the Raya clan over the Hoysala clan to safeguard the palace.

Royal Palace: Thanjavur’s royal palace is a mixed bag of ruin and renovation, superb art and random royal paraphernalia. The mazelike complex was constructed partly by the Nayak’s who took over Thanjavur in 1535, and partly by a local Maratha dynasty that ruled from 1676 to 1855.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight at Thanjavur

After hearty breakfast, check out from hotel and travel to Karaikudi by Air Conditioned vehicle.

En-route stop and visit the spectacular Rock Fort Temple of Tiruchirappalli, the landmark of the city. Visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple (Srirangam) –a temple which is among the most revered shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu in South India, and one of the largest temple complexes in India. Also visit The Jambukeshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is situated just 2 km east of Srirangam and houses five concentric walls and seven Gopuram.

After Tiruchirappalli sightseeing, travel to Karaikudi.

The town is considered to be one of the cultural cradles of South India and has a unique way of life. Take a sightseeing tour of Chettinad town and see how artisans make woven saris, handmade tiles, gold jewelry, etc. Enjoy a king’s stay in a traditional Chettinad Mansion and have a personal experience of the culture’s local flavor. Have a bullock-cart ride on a morning excursion to the village, a fun-filled experience.On arrival meet our representative and check-in to the hotel.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight at Karaikudi

After a hearty breakfast, check out from hotel and travel to Madurai – The Lotus City.

Madurai, the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities of India. Ruled by Pandya kings for the longest time in its history, it is called the 'Lotus City' as it was planned and built in the shape of a lotus. Madurai is known for Meenakshi Amman Temple, dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi with a sanctum for her consort, Sundareshwarar.

On arrival complete the check-in formalities and spend rest of the day leisurely.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight at Madurai

After breakfast, go for sightseeing tour of the city with your guide.

Meenakshi Amman Temple: Meenakshi Amman Temple, also known as Meenakshi-Sundareshwara Temple, is one of the oldest and most important temples in India. Renowned for its astonishing architecture, Meenakshi Temple was nominated as one of the wonders of the world.

Visit Mariamman Teppakulam- Constructed in the honor of Lord Vigneshwara, this divine temple is situated about 5 km from the Meenakshi temple. It has a huge tank in the compound of the temple and holds the record of being the biggest tank in the region of Tamil Nadu.

Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal: Thirumalai Nayakar Palace was erected in 1636 AD in the city of Madurai, by King Thirumalai Nayak. The palace depicts the perfect blend of Dravidian and Rajput styles. After Independence, this palace was declared as a national monument and till date continues to be one of the spectacular monuments of Southern India.

Also visit Gandhi Museum – The Gandhi Memorial Museum serves as a remembrance and tribute to the efforts of very own father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi. Established in 1959 in his cherished memory, eleven years after his demise, it is one of the few Gandhi Museums in the country.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight at Madurai

After a hearty breakfast, check out from the hotel and get transferred to Madurai International Airport to board the flight for home town. (Reach 3 hours prior for international flights).

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accomodations

  • Opulent
  • Luxury
  • Economy
  • Chennai – The Leela Palace
  • Pondicherry – Maison Perumal
  • Thanjavur – Ideal River View Resort
  • Karaikudi – The Bangala
  • Madurai – Heritage Madurai

Chennai – The Leela Palace

The most opulent and beautifully created and located hotel in Chennai. It is a brand new hotel designed on the lines of traditional Chettinad architecture. The interiors exude a wonderful combination of luxury and tradition. The hotel has exquisitely designed 326 rooms and suites. The spas, location and service make it one of the best hotels to stay in South India - Stay in Luxurious Leela Palace and spoil yourself.

Pondicherry – Maison Perumal

Maison Perumal is a Heritage Hotel located in French town of Pondicherry. The Maison Perumal experience is minimal only because it is completely sincere. As unvarnished as the Cuddapah stone floors, yet as alive and colourful as the sunlit stained glass of the balconies It took us more than a year and a half to restore the building itself, and to refurbish it with a studied attention to detail. Researches were conducted into the minutiae of woodwork, fitting and finish; local craftsmen were pressed into service; old crafts were revived. To this authenticity, we chose to add only comforts such as air conditioning - but no disturbing frills that would detract from the authenticity of what we wished to recreate for you. To seek coddling here would perhaps invite disappointment, but we do promise one thing: by the end of your stay, you will have tasted first-hand what it was like to live in a noble Tamil home of the period. You will have seen something of that special simplicity. Known those graceful ways, felt the warmth of a forgotten ambience. Maison Perumal is not a grand hotel. It is something considerably harder to create-a gracious home. Hotel Category: Heritage

Thanjavur – Ideal River View Resort

Ideal River View Resort is located along the banks of Vennar a branch of river Cauvery 3 kms away from the city limit of Tanjore. The resort is situated in a secluded but a scenic spot away from the hustle, bustle; the din and dust of the urban city. It's a cool and calm place surrounded by a large landscape of semi-jungle paddy fields. The resort is a perfect blend of Indian tradition and contemporary facilities. A cluster of cottage type apartments with modern amenities are designed and devised to provide the maximum privacy and seclusion with exclusive balconies overwhelming river view and green landscape. Self-contained air conditioned cottage type rooms, open out in to the sky with spectacular view altogether. The resort also has a multi-cuisine restaurant, swimming pool and Ayurveda massage center.

Karaikudi – The Bangala

The Bangala is a heritage hotel based on traditional Chettinadu architecture. The courtyard, swimming pools and the rooms are all built in traditional style. It is fun to stay in this hotel as it feel that you have gone back in time. The hotel serves excellent traditional food and also offers a host of activities like bullock cart visit etc.

Madurai – Heritage Madurai

The five star luxury, Heritage Madurai, offers its guests sublime tranquility that embodies the bliss of natural serenity in its courtyards that are shaded by overhanging pitched roofs. The hotel has a range of sumptuously furnished rooms unrivalled for comfort: Luxury Villa, Deluxe Rooms and Standard Rooms. Allow yourself to be pampered by the luxurious accommodation at Heritage Madurai and its staff that awaits to give you a meticulous world- class service. The hotel has facilities like Wi-Fi, Travel Desk etc. A bird's eye view of Heritage Madurai, located in the historical city of Madurai, reveals a verdant property, with swaying banyan trees and distant mountains. The hotel embodies a group of pillared pavilions embracing three internal courtyards shaded by overhanging pitched roofs. The central structure of the Old Madurai Club was originally conceptualized by Sri Lanka's eminent architect, Geoffrey Bawa. It was designed in a way that materials and resources from in and around Madurai could be utilized in its creation. Thus it was constructed with honey coloured granite from the Nagamalai Hills, stone slabs from an abandoned textile mill, 18th century columns salvaged from derelict homes and Chettinad doors. Materials for windows and doors are cast from bronze and the ceilings are lined with handloom cotton tapestries. There's an old temple cart, which hides the source of a gurgling fountain. In total, Heritage is an architectural masterpiece.

  • Chennai – Vivanta by Taj Connemara
  • Pondicherry – Maison Perumal
  • Thanjavur – Ideal River View Resort
  • Karaikudi – The Bangala (Luxury)
  • Madurai – Heritage Madurai

Chennai – Vivanta by Taj Connemara

Vivanta by Taj - Connemara, Chennai is the city's only heritage hotel, built in 1854 as the Imperial Hotel, renamed Albany in 1886, and finally re-established as The Connemara in 1890. It was an Art Deco look that the Connemara sported when it ‘reopened’ in 1937. And the legendary architect Geoffrey Bawa added his touch to the tower block and linking pool in 1974. Today it is infused with the spirited style of Vivanta by Taj. A fresh new vibe that complements tradition. Drive in from the airport delighting in backseat surprises (we're not revealing here). You'll see how we mean business in a quiet efficient way from the moment you step in. Our lobby is a unique mix of chic and classic. This arrival zone sets the tone for guestrooms and banquet facilities that deliver the ultimate in urban relaxation. The rooms are some of the largest and most spacious in the city and are appointed with modern comforts. Get set to be delighted with small surprises from the moment you enter. Discover the most happening restaurants which create an enticing food corridor offering the best in world cuisine. Technology is woven through it all. Vivanta by Taj - Connemara, Chennai has all the entertainment and connectivity options today's traveller requires. Become a part of our world.

Pondicherry – Maison Perumal

Maison Perumal is a Heritage Hotel located in French town of Pondicherry. The Maison Perumal experience is minimal only because it is completely sincere. As unvarnished as the Cuddapah stone floors, yet as alive and colourful as the sunlit stained glass of the balconies It took us more than a year and a half to restore the building itself, and to refurbish it with a studied attention to detail. Researches were conducted into the minutiae of woodwork, fitting and finish; local craftsmen were pressed into service; old crafts were revived. To this authenticity, we chose to add only comforts such as air conditioning - but no disturbing frills that would detract from the authenticity of what we wished to recreate for you. To seek coddling here would perhaps invite disappointment, but we do promise one thing: by the end of your stay, you will have tasted first-hand what it was like to live in a noble Tamil home of the period. You will have seen something of that special simplicity. Known those graceful ways, felt the warmth of a forgotten ambience. Maison Perumal is not a grand hotel. It is something considerably harder to create-a gracious home. Hotel Category: Heritage

Thanjavur – Ideal River View Resort

Ideal River View Resort is located along the banks of Vennar a branch of river Cauvery 3 kms away from the city limit of Tanjore. The resort is situated in a secluded but a scenic spot away from the hustle, bustle; the din and dust of the urban city. It's a cool and calm place surrounded by a large landscape of semi-jungle paddy fields. The resort is a perfect blend of Indian tradition and contemporary facilities. A cluster of cottage type apartments with modern amenities are designed and devised to provide the maximum privacy and seclusion with exclusive balconies overwhelming river view and green landscape. Self-contained air conditioned cottage type rooms, open out in to the sky with spectacular view altogether. The resort also has a multi-cuisine restaurant, swimming pool and Ayurveda massage center. Hotel Category: 3 Star

Karaikudi – The Bangala (Luxury)

The Bangala is a heritage hotel based on traditional Chettinadu architecture. The courtyard, swimming pools and the rooms are all built in traditional style. It is fun to stay in this hotel as it feel that you have gone back in time. The hotel serves excellent traditional food and also offers a host of activities like bullock cart visit etc.

Madurai – Heritage Madurai

The five star luxury, Heritage Madurai, offers its guests sublime tranquility that embodies the bliss of natural serenity in its courtyards that are shaded by overhanging pitched roofs. The hotel has a range of sumptuously furnished rooms unrivalled for comfort: Luxury Villa, Deluxe Rooms and Standard Rooms. Allow yourself to be pampered by the luxurious accommodation at Heritage Madurai and its staff that awaits to give you a meticulous world- class service. The hotel has facilities like Wi-Fi, Travel Desk etc. A bird's eye view of Heritage Madurai, located in the historical city of Madurai, reveals a verdant property, with swaying banyan trees and distant mountains. The hotel embodies a group of pillared pavilions embracing three internal courtyards shaded by overhanging pitched roofs. The central structure of the Old Madurai Club was originally conceptualized by Sri Lanka's eminent architect, Geoffrey Bawa. It was designed in a way that materials and resources from in and around Madurai could be utilized in its creation. Thus it was constructed with honey coloured granite from the Nagamalai Hills, stone slabs from an abandoned textile mill, 18th century columns salvaged from derelict homes and Chettinad doors. Materials for windows and doors are cast from bronze and the ceilings are lined with handloom cotton tapestries. There's an old temple cart, which hides the source of a gurgling fountain. In total, Heritage is an architectural masterpiece. Hotel Category: Luxury Heritage

  • Chennai – Raintree Chennai
  • Pondicherry – Maison Perumal - Economy
  • Thanjavur – Ideal River View Resort - Economy
  • Karaikudi – Saratha Vilas
  • Madurai – GRT Regency

Chennai – Raintree Chennai

Stay in luxurious yest affordable Raintree hotel in Chennai. Located in the hub of the city - it suits the varies needs of both Corporate and leisure travellers alike. It has Spa, swimming pools and host of other facilities to suit various guest requirements.

Pondicherry – Maison Perumal - Economy

One of the best hotels to stay in Pondicherry - This hotel belongs to the famous CGH group - known for its heritage feel - The hotel has been restored and offers great service and interiors. Stay in the hotel to bring back the days of bygone era.

Thanjavur – Ideal River View Resort - Economy

Locate in the heritage town of Thanjavur just a few Kilometers away from the main heritage temple - the hotel is built in traditional style and has a good garden area and restaurant. The hotel caters mainly to inbound foreign clients. This is the best hotel to stay in the city of Thanjavur

Karaikudi – Saratha Vilas

A beautiful heritage hotel built in traditional style. It is a bit expensive for an economy hotel but one of the cheaper hotels in the area. The hotel is known for its interiors and traditional South Indian food. The hotel offers various walks and trails in the city to explore the culture of the city.

Madurai – GRT Regency

One of the better 4 star value for money hotels in Madurai - the hotel has good amenities and interiors including a swimming pool and Gym. The hotel has Superior rooms and deluxe suites. The hotel is located close to all important landmarks of city.

Pricing And Availability

  • Opulent
  • Luxury
  • Economy
Place Hotel
Chennai The Leela Palace
Pondicherry Maison Perumal
Thanjavur Ideal River View Resort
Karaikudi The Bangala
Madurai Heritage Madurai
Period - Opulent Price per person
16 Apr 2021 – 30 Sep 2021 For prices contact us
1 Oct 2021 – 31 Mar 2022 For prices contact us
Place Hotel
Chennai Vivanta by Taj Connemara
Pondicherry Maison Perumal
Thanjavur Ideal River View Resort
Karaikudi The Bangala (Luxury)
Madurai Heritage Madurai
Period - Luxury Price per person
16 Apr 2021 – 30 Sep 2021 For prices contact us
1 Oct 2021 – 31 Mar 2022 For prices contact us
Place Hotel
Chennai Raintree Chennai
Pondicherry Maison Perumal - Economy
Thanjavur Ideal River View Resort - Economy
Karaikudi Saratha Vilas
Madurai GRT Regency
Period - Economy Price per person
16 Apr 2021 – 30 Sep 2021 For prices contact us
1 Oct 2021 – 31 Mar 2022 For prices contact us

Bespoke India Holidays Value Includes

  • Accommodation in above mentioned hotels with daily breakfast
  • All entrances charges in monuments
  • All transfers including airport transfers by an AC Car (For Opulent and Luxury option large car)
  • En-route visit to Mahabalipuram’s Shore Temple, while travelling from Chennai to Pondicherry
  • Evening Aarti Session with locals at Mennakshi Temple in Madurai.
  • En-route visit to Tiruchirappalli, while travelling from Thanjavur to Karaikudi
  • Professional English Speaking guides at all places
  • All meals in Karaikudi Heritage hotels
  • Chocolates,Mint and Wet Tissues in the vehicle during your tour
  • 2 Mineral Water bottles per person per day
  • All taxes

Bespoke India Holidays Specials

Travelling with Bespoke India Holidays ensures a memorable and hassle free experience with following specials

  • 01 Special lunch at local restaurant in Chennai
  • Highly responsive 24x7 support during the tour
  • High quality personally handpicked local guides at all places that are government approved
  • Courteous chauffeur at your service for the tour.
  • Special assistance in each city for smooth check-ins

Book Now!

To book the itinerary or for amendments or price enquiry

Personal Details

Accomodation

Budget Per Person Excluding International Flights

Before Click on Submit, Please make sure you have filled all the fields correctly.

×

Download Brochure

Please fill below details to download the brochure
  • :
  • :
  • :